Frankie's transformation story, part 1

SOKS does not typically assist with cat adoptions, as our primary focus is on TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return). However, on very rare and unique occasions, we may look for forever homes. Usually, when we encounter kittens or friendly adult cats during TNR, we try to connect them with animal rescues as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, this has become increasingly challenging as rescues are overwhelmed with cats in need of homes.

Frankie’s story is one of these rare and special cases, and we are currently searching for a loving forever home for him. He is now a sweet, healthy boy weighing 15 pounds. Here is his story.

How We Met

In October 2025, during a TNR event, we noticed a large male cat with a severe wound on the top of his neck. A significant amount of skin was missing—approximately five inches in diameter—leaving red flesh exposed.

After trapping him, we took him to the Stockton Animal Shelter, where he was neutered and his wound was closed with numerous stitches. Initially, we planned to return him to his colony. But the day after his surgery, the cat was growling and hissing in his trap, and I had a gut feeling that I should keep him a little longer. I decided to call him Frankie because the stitches on his neck reminded me of Frankenstein’s monster.

A Turn for the Worse

We transferred Frankie to a large kennel, which included a spacious cat carrier where he could hide. Since he didn’t trust us yet, the carrier allowed us to safely close the door while changing his litter and refilling his food and water. At that time, he continued to growl and hiss whenever we approached him.

Unfortunately, the stitches didn’t hold. After a few days, the wound wasn’t healing, and Frankie also developed an upper respiratory infection. The poor boy was in bad shape!

Because Frankie was feral and would not let anybody touch him, we could not take him to a vet. I also did not want him to go under anesthesia again so close to his recent treatment. Instead, I gave him antibiotics and better food, but I wasn’t sure what else to do.

A New Treatment

After doing more research and consulting with experienced cat friends and veterinarians, I learned about using silver manuka honey as a treatment for open wounds. By that time, Frankie was still growling, but he was probably just trying to let us know he wasn’t feeling well. He had started to allow a bit more contact, too.

With treats as a distraction, Frankie allowed me to apply the manuka honey ointment directly to his wound. I then quickly covered it with three rolls of bandages. Since the wound was in a difficult spot, I couldn’t use a cone to prevent him from scratching it. Instead, I changed the bandages daily for six weeks. Slowly but surely, things began to improve and Frankie was becoming more friendly.

Part 2 is coming soon. Contact us to adopt Frankie.